The National Urban Search and Rescue Response System, under FEMA structures local emergency personnel into integrated disaster response task forces.

What is a Structures Specialist?

A Structures Specialist performs various structural assessments for an Urban Search & Rescue Task Force during incident operations. The StS reports directly to the Planning Team Manager, but will often be assigned to the Search Team or Rescue Team Manager.

US Army Corps of Engineers

As part of the National Response Plan, the US Army Corps of Engineers is designated as the agency that facilitates and conducts US&R training for Structures Specialists that are part of the National US&R System.

NOTE: The training that is listed on the upper right Training & Event Schedule is intended for StS. However, other members of a ligitamate US&R TF or Team may be admitted if space is available

Hatteras Village, NC, September 22, 2003 -- Twisted electrical lines hang from a collapsed building in Hatteras Village in the aftermath of Hurricane Isabel. Photo: Cynthia Hunter/FEMA News Photo

Disasterengineer.org is designed to be a source of information that will improve the safety and efficiency of Structural Collapse Rescue Response. This is an independent site, and is not sponsored or supported by the Federal Government. The information contained herein is not warranted by the DHS/FEMA National US&R Response System, and they take no responsibility for its content.